Compassion Magazine Winter 2022

Winter 2022 - Compassion | www.tcf.org.uk 23 I already knew that sailing has a lot going for it in terms of wellbeing: just being in blue spaces (like the sea) can have a positive effect on stress reduction and wellbeing. Learning to sail helps develop essential life skills, bringing you out of your comfort zone and challenging your perceived limitations; it can help increase your self-confidence and resilience; it can teach you how to work with others and even lead a team; and it can be great fun. What I realised on this trip was that being in a vast blue space gives you a sense of perspective and that crewing tasks are often time-sensitive and need all your attention, which means that you absolutely have to be present in the moment, mindful of your surroundings and paying attention to your crewmates. This chases all other thoughts away and if all goes well, you get a wonderful sense of achievement! Finally, I had assumed that Laury wanted me to go sailing because he thought I’d enjoy it or we’d be able to do it together. Now, however, I suspect that he wanted me to realise just how clever and talented he was to be a proficient sailor, able to skipper a crew of three from Concarneau to Bordeaux. Well, Laury, consider it done. (By the way, did I mention the dolphins?) by Solen Lees A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. Amelia Earhart